Meet Jill Wyatt, an inspiring LeadUP donor who is dedicated to empowering the community through education, leadership development, and fostering a culture of health and wellness for individuals and families across Calgary.
Jill’s passion for community building has driven her to improve social conditions and create opportunities for individuals, families, and communities. As an educator and senior leader in Calgary's public and not-for-profit sectors, Jill has proven herself a leader during times of complex change. She has worked to innovate for greater impact and help people reach their greatest potential. Jill served as Principal in three large senior high schools in Calgary, as CEO of the YWCA, and as Vice President of Community Investments and Collaborations at United Way of Calgary and Area. In her volunteer work, she served on the Board of the YWCA of Calgary, as a Senator at the University of Calgary for two terms (six years), on the Board of Governors at the University of Calgary, and as Chair of the Board of Governors (2017-2019).
Reflecting on her journey, Jill shares, "My whole life has been about teaching, learning, and community building." Her introduction to the YMCA began when she became CEO of the YWCA. A partnership blossomed between her and Wayne Perkins, a former CEO of the YMCA, who became a mentor and friend. One cherished memory from this time was the joint Christmas party between the YMCA and YWCA. YMCA staff would buy toys and books for children, which were then given to a family violence shelter run by the YWCA, providing mothers and children seeking safety with a way to receive gifts.
Jill and her husband, Paul, have passed their commitment to community service on to their son, Gregg. Gregg participated in and later became a counsellor at Camp Chief Hector YMCA. Each summer, they witnessed the camp's profound impact on their son. Jill recalls with a smile how, nearing the end of his camp experience as a participant, Gregg wrote his parents a letter explaining the camp's need for more counsellors and why he should stay another summer to help. This moment revealed his newfound independence and maturity.
Jill believes that "giving is about realizing the broad scope of need within the community and how to support that need." Both Jill and Paul credit YMCA Calgary for being a transparent leader with a clear focus on its mission, adapting with the times, and showcasing the organization's significant impact on the community. They choose to support YMCA Camp Chief Hector and Outdoor Experiences, recognizing the transformative power of these programs.
Jill, Paul, and many others believe all kids should get the chance to attend summer camp for the transformational experience it is. However, 1 in 10 need financial support in order to attend. Join us in branch for Camp It Forward, June 13-15, to help build a better future, one camper at a time.
You can make an impact on the youth in your neighbour today. Donate to Camp It Forward.